Director Francis Ford Coppola doing ‘fine’ after medical procedure in Rome

Film legend Francis Ford Coppola, the visionary behind cinematic masterpieces like "The Godfather" and "Apocalypse Now," is reportedly doing well after undergoing a scheduled medical procedure in Rome.

The 86-year-old director's U.S.-based representative confirmed that Mr. Coppola visited a hospital in the Italian capital for a pre-arranged "update procedure" with his long-time doctor, Andrea Natale. Dispelling any notions of an emergency, his representative emphasized, "All is well," stating that the director is now "resting nicely."

While Italian media initially reported his admission to Policlinico Tor Vergata, a public hospital, on Tuesday, Coppola himself took to Instagram to personally reassure fans. Sharing a relaxed, smiling photograph, he posted, "I am well," explaining that he was taking the opportunity in Rome to update his "30-year-old afib procedure with its inventor, a great Italian doctor – Dr. Andrea Natale."

It's worth noting that his representative specifically refuted an Italian report suggesting Coppola suffered atrial fibrillation *before* the procedure, clarifying that this was "not true" and the visit was a planned appointment.

Coppola's presence in Italy is linked to the promotion of his ambitious new science-fiction epic, "Megalopolis." This $120 million self-funded project explores a visionary architect's dream to transform a futuristic New York City, dubbed 'New Rome,' into a utopian community.

Despite drawing mixed reviews and facing challenges at the box office since its 2024 debut at the Cannes Film Festival, "Megalopolis" recently had a special screening at the Magna Graecia Film Festival. Coppola's remarkable career includes five Academy Awards, notably four for his groundbreaking work on the first two "Godfather" films, cementing his status among cinema's most revered figures.